Straw is a psychological crime film that was released on Netflix on June 6, 2025. The film follows a single mother whose world turns upside down when her ill daughter is taken away from her because she fails to take care of her. Straw comes from Tyler Perry, a filmmaker who excels in crafting unique stories. Straw received mixed reviews, most of them being positive, so it’s obvious fans are curious to know who plays who in the heart-wrenching crime thriller. Well, here is a list of the cast of Straw on Netflix.
Taraji P. Henson as Janiyah Wiltkinson
Janiyah Wilkinson is the lead cast member of Netflix’s Straw. She is a helpless mother who struggles to take care of her ill daughter, Aria, and to fulfill her basic needs. Janiyah works at a grocery store under an unsympathetic boss who doesn’t miss an opportunity to ridicule her. One day, when her daughter is taken away from her, she makes an impulsive decision, making her life even more difficult.
Taraji P. Henson portrays Janiyah Witkinson in Straw. She is an American actress whose popularity stems from projects such as Hustle & Flow, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Karate Kid, and Streetwise, among others.
Sherri Shepherd as Nicole
After getting fired, when Janiyah tries to cash her cheque at the bank, the teller refuses to do it without an official ID. So, seeing no option left, when Janiyah takes her gun out, Nicole, the bank manager, tries to help her. Nicole later becomes an ally to Janiyah, as she seems to be the only one who truly understands the latter’s situation.
Sherri Shepherd is an award-winning actress who has previously worked in projects like 30 Rock, The Sex Life of College Girls, and more.
Teyana Taylor as Det. Kay Raymond
Det. Key Raymond is the former negotiator of the army who works as a detective in the main storyline. Despite learning about Janiyah’s act at the bank, Raymond remains sympathetic towards her and also apprehends the officer who had threatened Janiyah earlier. Kay Raymond plays an incredible role as the Straw cast member, and her acting was highly impactful
Teyana Taylor is a multitalented public figure. She is an actor, dancer, singer, and music video editor who has appeared in numerous music videos, in addition to acting in films and television shows. The projects include Stomp the Yard: Homecoming, Fashion Police, The Masked Singer, and more.
Supporting Cast and Characters
- Gabrielle E Jackson as Aria, Janiyah’s sick daughter. The character is portrayed by the child actor Gabrielle E. Jackson, whom you may remember from First Night: The Million Dollar Heist and Will Trent.
- Glynn Turman as Richard, Janiyah’s mean and strict boss in the Straw cast. Glynn Turman is an Emmy Award-winning actor who has impressed us with his portrayals since the day that marked the beginning of his acting career. Some of the most renowned projects he has worked on are Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities, The Lazarus Man, Dakota’s Summer, and more.
- Rockmond Dunbar as Chief Wilson, the police officer in charge of the bank robbery investigation. Initially, he behaves harshly with Janiyah, but eventually, he understands the poor lady’s situation. Rockmond Dunbar is an American actor who previously appeared in some of the top-notch television series and movies. These include All About You, Punk, Alien Raiders, Earth 2, and more.
- Sinbad as Benny, the elderly neighbor of Janiyah. Sinbad, originally known as David Adkins, is a stand-up comedian and actor who gained popularity after appearing in projects such as Jingle All the Way, Planes, and Crazy as Hell.
- Mike Merrill as Det. Grimes, the detective who works with Raymond. Mike Merrill has appeared in The Black Hamptons, All American, and BMF previously before included in the Straw cast.
